What other travelers are saying about Japanese Rural Toys Museum
Calling this delightful place a toy museum hardly does it justice. From their brochure: "The folk-toys of Japan are not so much concerned with matter of play and education as with the protection of little ones, they are the creations of feeling rather than reason. And their source is found, almost always, in the characteristic love of parents for their children." The 4 galleries are stuffed with these talismanic items, truly a place filled with wonder. Located in the back of a series of modern shops, pick up tickets at the fun gift shop fronting the street.
Stunning gallery, it was hard to express just how much *stuff* was in each of the rooms, even if they were small. A person can spend lots of time engrossed in every detail, not to mention the rich history showcased. Recommended and a good price for those who appreciate arts and culture.
I had so much fun checking all those traditional toys. Feels more like a private collection you can access than a museum. They let me enter even though it was supposed to be closed, the owners are really nice. A bit difficult to find, the entrance is at the back of the toy store
Very small but cute toy museum, with a lot of different toys from Japan. Unfortunately the 1st gallery was closed due to renovation, but it was fun nonetheless. If you're in Kurashiki definitely come to this museum
The museum houses over 40,000 traditional folk toys from all 47 prefectures of Japan, making it the most comprehensive collection of regional Japanese toys in the country. Unlike museums that focus on modern or commercial toys, this collection exclusively features kyōdo gangu (folk toys) that represent centuries-old craft traditions, with pieces dating back to the Edo period. Each toy reflects the distinct materials, techniques, and cultural beliefs of its region of origin.
While most exhibit labels and explanations are primarily in Japanese, the visual nature of the toy displays makes the museum accessible to international visitors. The craftsmanship, colors, and forms of the toys themselves tell much of the story. However, visitors who cannot read Japanese may miss detailed cultural context about specific toys' meanings and regional significance. Consider bringing a translation app or joining a guided tour if available to enhance your understanding.
Yes, the museum operates a gift shop that sells reproductions and contemporary versions of traditional folk toys from various regions of Japan. These range from affordable small items to more expensive artisan-crafted pieces. Purchasing from the museum shop supports the preservation of traditional toy-making crafts and provides authentic souvenirs that represent genuine Japanese folk art rather than mass-produced tourist items.
Most visitors can thoroughly explore the museum in one to two hours. The collection, while extensive with 5,000 items on permanent display, is housed in a relatively compact space that allows for a complete viewing without feeling rushed. This makes it an ideal morning or afternoon activity that can easily be combined with exploring Kurashiki's historic Bikan canal district and other nearby attractions in the same day.
Yes, children often find the colorful and playful nature of traditional toys engaging, even if they don't fully grasp the historical context. The visual appeal of dolls, masks, animals, and folk characters captures young visitors' attention. However, as this is a museum with delicate historical artifacts rather than a hands-on play space, children should be supervised to ensure they observe the exhibits respectfully without touching. The museum best suits children old enough to appreciate looking at displays rather than toddlers who need interactive experiences.
